A Scenic Escape to Chopta Valley: Trekking, Local Food & Mountain Bliss from Rishikesh via Guptkashi
We started our journey to Chopta Valley not on horseback like movie heroes — but in a trusty old Uttarakhand Roadways bus from Rishikesh. Our target: Guptkashi, a quaint little town that acts like the cool cousin of Kedarnath.
The bus ride? Let’s just say — if your soul doesn’t leave your body at least once during those hairpin turns, are you even traveling in the Himalayas?
From Rishikesh to Guptkashi
Bus Fare: ₹700–₹750per person (one way). We booked it from Redbus.
Travel Time: Around 7-8 hours
My Pro Tip: Carry snacks, a playlist, and some neck support. Trust me.
After a night in Guptkashi (and two rounds of chai with pakoras that changed our mood instantly), we took a local cab towards Chopta. You’ll find shared cabs from the taxi stand or ask your stay to arrange one.
Guptkashi to Chopta by Cab
Fare: ₹2000–(one way, private cab). But we took shared cab and it cost us around ₹200 per head.
Route: Guptkashi → Phata → Makku → Chopta
Our Stay – Chaukhamba Camp
We stayed at Chaukhamba Camp — nestled between pine trees and mountain silence. Think of it as a place where your network disappears, but inner peace logs in.
- Room Type: Alpine tents with attached toilets
- Price: ₹1500–per night (depending on season) including breakfast and dinner.
- Highlight: Waking up to a postcard view of Chaukhamba peaks with a cup of hot pahadi chai in hand.
- Wifi– Luckily, we got free wifi here from the camp.
Now what to do in Chopta
Chopta isn’t for those looking for malls or swanky cafés. It’s for the ones who dream of clouds walking beside them.
Tungnath Temple Trek
The highest Shiva temple in the world, Tungnath is just a 3.5 km trek from Chopta. The climb tests your stamina, patience, and lung capacity — but the view at the top? Pure magic.
- Trek Time: 4-5 hours one way
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Open: April to November
Chandrashila Summit
If Tungnath gave you chills, Chandrashila will give you goosebumps.
- Extra 1.5 km uphill from Tungnath
- 360-degree view of Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba ranges.
As for Tungnath and Chandrashila, well… that part of the journey was something else entirely — and it needs its own blog post (coming up next!).
Deoria Tal
A peaceful lake reflecting the mountains like nature’s mirror selfie. Perfect for a half-day detour.
Food in Chopta – Basic but Delicious
Don’t expect butter chicken. Think rajma-chawal, aloo paratha, and endless rounds of Maggi.
Local gems we devoured:
- Hot pahadi aloo curry with tandoori roti
- Buransh juice (made from rhododendron flowers – refreshing and redder than your ex’s cheeks)
Final Thoughts
If you want peace, unplugging, and nature’s hug — Chopta is calling. It doesn’t scream adventure; it whispers serenity. And with family by your side, even slipping on snow becomes a memory worth retelling.
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